Living over troubled waters | Bangkok Post: news

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Living over troubled waters

In the urgent interest of flood control most residents of makeshift homes built above Bangkok's clogged canals will be moved, the only question is how?

Obstructions along canals in Bangkok and nearby provinces are commonly cited as a major factor behind this year's flood disaster. However, clearing them has proved a thorny issue for authorities as it means not only removing debris and sediment, but also tearing down people's makeshift homes.

WATERFRONT PROPERTY: Bangkok’s canals attract crowded squatters’ communities and often stretch beyond the water’s edge. PHOTO: TUNYA SUKPANICH

The extensive canal system offers drainage during heavy rains and flooding. But most area canals, or khlongs, remain severely clogged in part due to squatters' houses along and especially directly over them, obstructing the flow of water to the river.

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About the author

columnist
Writer: Tunya Sukpanich
Position: Reporter

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